UK gardens support wildlife through the critical October to March period when food is scarce and temperatures drop below freezing. Hedgehogs hibernate from October to March and lose a third of their body weight. Garden birds need 10-20% of their body weight in food daily to survive cold nights. Over 20 plant species flower in British winters, providing nectar for early-emerging pollinators.
Key takeaways
- Hedgehogs hibernate October to March and must not be disturbed during this period
- Garden birds need 10-20% of their body weight in food daily in winter to survive
- Leave dead stems and leaf litter over winter to shelter hibernating insects
- Float a tennis ball in your pond to stop it freezing over completely
- Winter-flowering mahonia, hellebores, and snowdrops feed early pollinators
- The single worst thing you can do is tidy your garden too thoroughly in autumn
winter wildlife hibernation bird feeding garden wildlife winter garden
Our team produces practical UK gardening guidance from source research, contributor records and established horticultural practice. Editorial standards are overseen by Matt W.
